Six days until the list goes up on the wall. I try not to count, but my fingers move before I can stop them.

• Novice ClaraSir knight, I've memorized up to the twenty-third volume. If it's on the list, shall I memorize it for you?
  MikhailDon't memorize it. The one who memorizes ends up on the next list.
• Sister DorotheaPretend you didn't hear that child. Here, the ones who don't count live longer than the ones who do.
  MikhailThen I suppose I won't live long.